What is AmeriCorps?

AmeriCorps is an opportunity to make a big difference in your life and in the lives of those around you. It’s a chance to apply your skills and ideals toward helping others and meeting critical needs in the community.

Each year, AmeriCorps provides opportunities for 75,000 Americans to give back to their communities and country through dedicated national service. Since its creation in 1994, one million Americans have served their communities through the AmeriCorps program.

What do AmeriCorps Members do?

People who join AmeriCorps (called “members”) provide direct service in the areas of education, disaster services, economic opportunity, environmental stewardship, healthy futures, and veterans and military families. Here in Minnesota, there are hundreds of opportunities to get involved.

Who can join AmeriCorps?

AmeriCorps members must be at least 17 years old and a U.S. citizen, national, or legal permanent resident alien. People from all backgrounds and many stages of life can apply to be an AmeriCorps member – from college grads to career changers to retirees. Education requirements vary by program. Applicants participate in a highly competitive selection process to serve with local or national nonprofits.

ServeMinnesota believes that all individuals who are qualified and want to serve their community should have the opportunity to do so. Our staff works with disability organizations, colleges and universities, and the community to spread the word and ensure that Minnesota’s AmeriCorps programs are as inclusive as possible.

AmeriCorps is committed to the inclusion of qualified individuals without regard to race, color, national origin, disability, gender, sexual orientation, religion, political affiliation, or other non-merit factors.

What are the benefits of serving with AmeriCorps?

Members receive a modest living allowance and an education award ($5,775 for full-time service) to pay for higher education or to repay qualified student loans. Members may be eligible for student loan forbearance, health insurance, and child care assistance during their service.

Members also participate in training, create career connections, and develop marketable skills, while making a real difference in people’s lives. AmeriCorps is an awesome adventure and an experience of a lifetime.

Where do AmeriCorps members serve?

AmeriCorps service opportunities exist in communities across Minnesota, including the Twin Cities metro and small, medium, and large cities in Greater Minnesota. Check out the map to find programs near your community.